Celebrating Independence Day

Fairfax City to host Independence Day Activities on Saturday, July 3.

The City of Fairfax hosts a series of activities commemorating Independence Day on Saturday, July 3. Events include the following:

* An Independence Day Parade kicks off at 10 a.m., from the Massey Building in downtown Fairfax, rain or shine. The parade loops around downtown Fairfax along Chain Bridge Road, Main Street, University Drive and Armstrong Street. This year's theme is "Forever the Eagle Soars High."

* Old Fashioned Fireman's Day. Watch area fire companies compete using firefighting and emergency techniques and equipment from 1-5 p.m., at Fire Station 3, 4081 University Drive.

* Fireworks Display and Evening Show. Enjoy music by the City of Fairfax Band and New Censation at Fairfax High School at 7 p.m., followed by fireworks and another performance by New Censation. Fairfax High School is located at 3500 Old Lee Highway. Rain date for fireworks display is Sunday, July 4.

* Historic Open Houses. Several historic properties are open to the public, including the Fairfax Museum and Visitors Center, 10209 Main St., from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; the Ratcliffe-Allison House, 10386 Main St., from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; and the Legato School, 4000 Chain Bridge Road, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

For more information on activities, call 703-385-7949, or visit www.fairfaxva.gov.

On July 3, shuttle buses will be available from Woodson High School, George Mason University and Fairfax United Methodist Church from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and from 12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. In the evening, shuttle buses will run from 6 p.m. until after the fireworks.

For the rain date only (July 4), shuttle buses will run from Woodson High School from 7 p.m. to 9:15 p.m.